We took our dog to one of Barb's classes and it was a joke. She is VERY condescending, even to her helpers. I can understand her being upset with the people who repeatedly show up to class with the wrong items, but she's like this with everyone. She'll tell you it's OK to buy supplies elsewhere, but you can tell she doesn't like it. She specifies a 3' leash. You can't find a 3' leash in stores, but Barb has them for $35. I asked in one store in Monroeville for a 3' leash and they said "Oh, you're taking Barb's class, huh?" and they said she probably specifies that size because it's uncommon and she supplies them in her "store."
One person in the class asked for advice on walking their dog. Barb said she doesn't believe in walking dogs. It puts the dog out in front of you, giving the dog control. If she doesn't believe in walking a dog, why is she charging $35 for a leash? Most people who have dogs, will walk them at some point. Most people who pay for obedience classes want info on leash training. Once classes are paid for, they're non-refundable. You will not find out her non-belief in walking until you've paid and you're in the class.
During one class, there was a ton of snow on the roof. We'd had a huge snowstorm & a few classes had been canceled because of the weather. The roof kept making this loud creaking noise. Barb just kept saying how her landlord had assured her that it was OK.
In the end, we quit going because the new commands were confusing our dog, she already knew what was being taught. Even though Barb had our money, she stopped emailing each week's lesson when we stopped going.
She's not a good trainer, she likes to talk about herself & the "famous" people she's worked for. She likes to bark out orders to her helpers who duck their heads and run to her ever call.
Zero stars wouldn't register.
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